Individuals who have social anxiety may be aided by cognitive behavioral therapy

A new study published in Psychological Science has found that individuals with social anxiety disorder (SAD), which means that they may fear peer judgment and social interaction, can benefit greatly from psychotherapy. The researchers, led by Vladimir Miskovic, focused on the effects of psychotherapy over medication targeting the condition.

They recruited 25 adults with SAD and had them participate in 12 weekly sessions of cognitive behavior therapy, which is intended to help individuals recognize the patterns of negative thinking that cause them to persist in self-destructive thoughts and actions.

The scientists used electroencephalograms (EEGs) to figure out how participants' anxiety levels altered as they underwent psychotherapy. When they were given EEGs before, during and after treatment was completed, the clinical group's anxiety levels were found to be drastically reduced over time. The results suggest that talk therapy is extremely effective for SAD sufferers.

The study may interest Masters of Social Work students who are interested in mental health services. These individuals may eventually work as counselors and therapists to help individuals with a range of behavioral problems.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, clinical community workers are expected to be continually aware of innovation in therapeutic methods that may help their patients with social interaction issues. They may need to engage in continued education to better serve the complex needs of their clients.  

POSTED BY: ec_admin - February 15th, 2011 at 03:52pm ( 0 )